TAPC Leaders, John Heiam and Lois Goldstein chaperoned in perfect 70ish weather to usher in Kati Flees, John Gerty, Harold and Pam Lassers, Tracie Lord, Marcy Maller, Jocelyn Trepte, Gerald and Susan Wilgus, and me, Milda Ranney. Besides the flora and fauna one customarily sees on the Betsie, there were reported sightings of a deer scampering in the woods and a family of seven quacking mergansers enjoying a swim under the overhanging bushes on the river.
There were several portages that merit mention: Harold L. waded in a z-turn amidstream to ease all paddlers through a tricky current; John H., John G., Jocelyn T. and Kati F. also waded in the water to lift boats over fallen trees so paddlers could reenter their craft after a few steps on terra firma—land!
Milda R., seeing John, Jocelyn, and Kati in knee-high water forming a portage assembly line, decided to exit her kayak by the fallen tree and water-walk it to them. Note to self: before exiting the kayak, always remember to check the water depth with my paddle before exiting. I stepped out of my kayak…into waist deep water: my first unexpected wet exit! Heavens to Betsie (@#?! No pun intended) What a hoot! But the water was refreshing!
The day's fatalities included decreasing the deer fly population. Albeit we tried. (Insert sigh here). Long live all bug repellents.
Jocelyn T., John G., Gerald W. won first, second and third place in an unscheduled river clean up. All tried to make a respectable contribution as well. Go green!
The day ended with a cookout, courtesy of Gerald and Susan W. All who attended the spontaneous invitation had a great time—including learning the game of Kubb. What fun!
Take time to review the TAPC outings—you owe it to yourself. The camaraderie, paddling expertise, and good humor combine to make memories that will linger after you leave the river….only to return to it! Thank you all!